Golf Bag Types Explained
Whether you are a golfer who walks the course carrying a bag, pushes a cart, or rides in a cart, there is a golf bag out there that fits your needs best. There have been many advancements in materials and bag design in the last several years; therefore, the decision of which bag is best suited for your game has become more difficult. The golf bag you select can be one of the most important purchases any golfer makes. Your golf bag protects your club investment, organizes your accessories for quick access, and stores your clubs.
Besides overall design and style, most golfers select a golf bag based on how much equipment they have and whether they carry their bags or use a cart. Avid golfers even make use of more than one bag and switch their clubs from bag to bag depending on several factors: the course layout, equipment needed, and the weather conditions. We will look at the main types of golf bags available and help you determine the best bag that fits your needs. From stand bags to cart bags, carry bags to waterproof bags, we will dive into it all so that you can make an informed decision on your next golf bag investment.
GOLF CART BAGS
Golf cart bags are designed to be used on a push, pull, or sit-down riding cart. Usually, they have a cart friendly non-slip base that prevents the bag from sliding off the cart while it’s moving. Designed with flat backsides, cart bags are designed to connect securely on the back of the cart. Some cart bags have strap channels and/or additional straps to help secure them to your cart.
One of the great things about cart bags is you can carry additional balls, drinks, and gear without worrying about the extra weight. Cart bags typically come with plenty of pockets for storing items such as tees, golf balls, rangefinders, rain wear and windbreakers, golf shoes, and other accessories.
To carry a full set of clubs with extra wedges, cart bags are larger than other bags and many have 14-way divider system with designated spots for each club. Cart bags are heavier than stand or carry bags and typically weigh between 7 and 10 pounds. Due to their weight and lack of a stand, they are not practical for walking golfers. However, cart bags usually have a padded single strap to help carry your bag from your vehicle to your cart on the course.
STAND BAGS
If you enjoy walking and carrying your bag around the course, a golf stand bag may be the best option for you. Stand bags are designed with legs that extend when you set them down, allowing the bag to stand upright on it's own. Once the bag is lifted, the stand legs retract and return to their stowed position flat on the backside of the bag. Stand bags are lightweight (3.5 to 6 pounds) which make them a great option for golfers who carry their clubs on their back. Most stand bags come with a padded, double shoulder strap that works similar to backpack carry straps. The strap system distributes the weight of the bag across both shoulders for a more comfortable carrying experience. Stand bags also have a padded hip pad on the side of the bag to help the bag rest on your side while carrying it.
Compared to cart bags, stand bags usually have fewer club dividers and fewer pockets for storage. Most stand bags have a cooler sleeve for quick access to a drink bottle. Compared to cart bags, the stand bags are smaller in shape and take up less space in your vehicle which might be a benefit if you have a smaller trunk.
Hybrid stand bags combine the features of cart and stand bags. Hybrid stand bags still have the dual strap carrying system, retractable stand legs, and lighter weight like a traditional stand bag, but they also feature a 14-way club divider system, cart friendly bases and more storage options like a cart bag. Just realize the more items you store in a hybrid stand bag the heavier it will be to carry around the course.
SUNDAY BAGS
Sunday bags (also called pencil bags) are perfect for Par 3 courses, Top Golf, or when you are heading to the range. They are also great for junior golfers and beginners that might not have a full set of clubs. Golf Sunday bags are the smallest type of bag and are designed to be lightweight and portable. They typically have a carry strap, single or double, and often have a rigid front handle that can be used for carrying. Most Sunday bags only have 2 or 3 dividers and can hold from 5 to 8 clubs.
However, if you carry lots of equipment or regularly play golf in inclement weather conditions, a Sunday bag might not be the best option for you. Some of these bags are made without a stand, Sunday bags are designed to be laid on the ground next to your ball between shots. Some pencil bags come with small stands to raise the bag slightly off the ground, but this is much lower than a full stand bag. Sunday bags take up very little space in your vehicle and are easy to get from the car to the course. Sunday bags offer limited storage space for golf accessories, such as extra balls, drinks, shoes, and clothing. Sunday bags are inexpensive and are a great option as a second bag if you have a larger cart bag that you don’t want to lug around to the range and par 3s.
WATERPROOF BAGS
There are a few things to consider when deciding whether to invest in a waterproof golf bag. If you frequently play in wet or humid conditions, then a waterproof bag can be worth the investment. When it comes to playing golf in inclement weather, having the right gear can make all the difference. If you are caught in a sudden downpour, your clubs will stay dry and won’t be damaged by moisture. Typically, waterproof golf bags are equipped with drainage holes to allow any water that does manage to get inside to quickly escape. There are various models of stand and cart bags that are waterproof with different weights, pockets, and divider systems.
While regular golf bags are made of water-resistant materials, they are not completely waterproof. On the other hand, if you rarely play in rainy weather then a regular golf bag will likely suffice. Waterproof bags are more expensive than standard bags due to the waterproof material, waterproof zippers, and seam sealing process. If you are a casual golfer who only plays a few times per year, you may not want to spend the extra money.
For More Information on our Selection of Golf Bags.